Djokovic Wins Decisive TB To Continue Dominance Of Tsitsipas In Paris SFs

Novak Djokovic won his eighth straight match against Stefanos Tsitsipas on Saturday in the Rolex Paris Masters semi-finals, extending his twin win streaks to 13 matches both overall and at the ATP Masters 1000 event — but only just.

In a 6-2, 3-6, 7-6(4) victory, the Serbian won the final four points of the match after falling behind by a mini-break in the decisive tie-break, including a defensive masterclass to bring up match point. Djokovic could not convert two late break points at 4-4, 15/40, and instead needed a dramatic comeback of his own despite making a blistering start to the contest in the opening set.

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"It's very sweet, obviously, when you win matches like this against one of the best players in the world," Djokovic said after the victory. "I thought I started the match very well, again, great hitting like yesterday in the quarters. I had chances early on in the second, I didn't break his serve. The momentum shifted, the crowd got into it. I think he elevated his level of tennis.

"Deservedly so, we went into — both of us — into an even battle all the way until the last point, until the last shot. Some incredible points towards the end. I'm just really glad to overcome this challenge."

The six-time Bercy champion improved to 8-0 in semi-finals at the tournament and 9-2 against the Greek. Djokovic will next face Holger Rune in his record 56th ATP Masters 1000 final as he seeks to claim his third Paris title in as many appearances following triumphs in 2019 and 2021.

More to come...